A Church For All Ages
“intergenerational Christian formation happens when congregation intentionally brings the generations together in mutual serving, sharing, or learning within the core practices of the church in order to live out being the body of Christ to each other and the greater community.” (Allen, et al. Intergenerational Christian Formation)
A church for all ages is about intentionally including people of all ages. It’s not just about what we do, but who we are. It’s about relationships. It is about being an intergenerational community that worships, learns and serves together.
This webpage is more than just a resource hub—it’s an invitation to rediscover the beauty and power of growing in faith together, no matter your age. This initiative particularly highlights how intergenerational Christian formation can deeply shape the spiritual lives of children.
Imagine a church where children, parents, grandparents, and everyone in between come together to worship, learn, and serve. It’s in these shared moments that children see faith lived out across generations, and this experience becomes a foundation for their spiritual journey. As they participate in faith practices alongside adults, they are more likely to develop a deep and lasting relationship with God.
These resources are built around questions that matter: Why does it make a difference when we worship with all ages together? How can we move beyond just teaching children about faith to actually forming them spiritually? What do different generations bring to this shared journey? How can we create spaces where everyone, especially the youngest among us, feels like they truly belong? We believe that when children grow up in a community where all generations are valued and included, their faith can flourish in profound ways.
What is the Biblical Rationale?
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 exemplifies parental discipleship in the home, yet these commands were addressed to the entire assembly of Israel, emphasizing a communal responsibility. Deuteronomy 4:9 and other passages highlight the importance of multi-generational teaching. Throughout Scripture, Israel’s communal gatherings for feasts and celebrations included all generations (Deuteronomy 29:10-12, 2 Chronicles 20:13, Nehemiah 8:2-3, 12:43). Psalms 145:4 and 78 underscore passing faith between generations. Jesus’ ministry included children, illustrating the value of intergenerational inclusion (Matthew 18:2-6, Mark 10:13-16). Paul’s epistles addressed various generations, reflecting their presence in the church (Ephesians 6:1-4, Colossians 3:20). Intergenerational is deeply rooted in biblical tradition.
How do we become intentionally intergenerational?
Start small! It’s not necessarily about doing different things but doing what we already do differently!
It’s about more then worship, more then just Sunday! Find your entry point. What are you already doing that involves more then one generation?
Below you will find categories that link to key resources, practical tools and ideas to help you nurture this kind of vibrant, grace-filled community. We hope this will help you to support and celebrate the spiritual growth of every generation, especially our children. Let’s embark on this journey together—because in God’s family, there’s a place for everyone!
Communal Worship
Preaching Tips
Engaging All Senses In Worship
Experiences
Planning Intergenerational Events
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